Ambassador Lisa Herron: Every Step Counts 

For Lisa Herron, the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is more than just a race – it’s a celebration of resilience, community, and personal growth. As a 2025 Indy Mini Ambassador, Lisa is eager to motivate others to set goals, prioritize a healthy lifestyle, and uplift fellow racers with energy and enthusiasm. She is a courageous fighter, an ACDF warrior, a diabetic athlete who has conquered six knee surgeries, a melanoma survivor, and is now facing heart issues, yet she refuses to let these challenges stand in the way of her fitness goals. Lisa’s journey is one of endurance over speed, emphasizing that every step – no matter big or small – matters.

Through her experience as a power walker, Lisa has learned valuable lessons about endurance, pacing, and gauging her abilities. “My biggest lesson learned has been that there is a story of pride and grit toward the ‘Back of the Pack,’” Lisa said. She believes the “Back of the Pack” holds the most powerful examples of determination and dedication, proving that you don’t have to be among the first to finish to feel a deep sense of accomplishment. Lisa’s journey has empowered her to find success in every mile, both during training and on race day of the Mini-Marathon.  

With nine Mini-Marathons under her belt, Lisa is no stranger to the race day spirit. “Race day is like Christmas to me,” Lisa shared. “I feel like a kid with all the excitement. I love celebrating success with everyone who crosses the finish line!”   

When asked about recognizing when to push forward or take a step back, Lisa noted the importance of listening to her body. “I sometimes struggle to find the balance,” Lisa conveyed. “There are days it might take me 4 to 5 walks to hit my mileage goal for the day. I have learned to pause and receive what the day is going to bring.” Lisa’s training has taught her the importance of rest and recovery and that taking time to pause is okay, not a setback.  

In 2023, Lisa participated in the Mini with a Meaning Program as a chariot racer with Ainsley’s Angels. “One of my best Mini-Marathon experiences was in 2023,” Lisa reflected. “Walking with my Angel changed me forever. I learned to see the world through her eyes and be truly present.” For Lisa, the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is an opportunity to uplift others and celebrate the power of community.  

Despite navigating health obstacles herself, Lisa doesn’t let the tough days get in the way of her goals, sharing that her walking goal for 2025 is 6,000 miles.  “I don’t let the hard days with my health journey define me. I get up every day with a happy heart, walk in grace, and set goals that take me out of my comfort zone.” Lisa is dedicated to inspiring others to stay active and make their health a priority. “I want to use my walking to journey to encourage people to get up and move!” Lisa shared.  

When asked about advice she would give to first-time Mini-Marathon participants, Lisa stressed the importance of having both quality gear and a strong mindset to power you through the day. “I would recommend getting fitted for a good pair of running shoes,” Lisa noted. “I am usually at least 100 miles into a good pair of shoes before race day. As you cross the start line at the race, take a deep breath and remember to enjoy every mile. You have worked hard to own your journey!” 

Lisa’s story is a reminder that all it takes to compete in the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is the right attitude. Join Lisa’s can-do spirit and register for the Mini-Marathon on May 3rd today!  

Don’t forget to share your favorite Mini-Marathon photos and memories using #IndyMini, and keep up to date with all the excitement of May by following @500festival on Facebook and Instagram.   

Walking Toward Health: Samantha’s Weight Loss Journey 

“I had gained so much weight that daily tasks had become nearly impossible to complete. I knew then and there that I needed to change my life for the better.” 

These powerful words from Samantha mark the moment she decided to take control of her health. After finding even simple tasks increasingly difficult, like walking to the mailbox, Samantha knew her lifestyle needed to change. That day in December of 2023, she made a choice. A choice to throw out all unhealthy foods and make the call to the Indiana University Health Bariatric Department. 

Before starting her weight loss journey, Samantha dreaded exercise and had little interest in healthy eating. The gym felt intimidating, and unhealthy foods were her go-to for comfort. But as she made small changes, her mindset shifted. Today, she looks forward to her workouts, eager to push herself further each time. What was once a chore has become an opportunity for personal achievement. On tough days, Samantha looks back at her progress photos to remind herself how far she’s come. “Rome wasn’t built in a day,” she says, knowing that lasting change takes time. Instead of focusing on setbacks, she celebrates the small wins, trusting that progress is built one step at a time. 

Fast forward to today. Samantha has lost 175 pounds, transformed her mindset, and is amidst her training for the Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K, a goal that once felt out of reach. Her journey is a testament to the power of determination and the fact that anyone, no matter where they start, can achieve incredible things. 

For Samantha, the 5K is more than just a race — it’s a chance to measure how far she’s come. “I believe the 5K gives me an opportunity to truly see how much I can really do,” she says. Completing a 5K is a true accomplishment for her, especially considering where she started, and serves as a powerful reminder of the progress she’s made on her weight loss journey. 

Samantha’s advice for anyone starting their own journey is simple: give yourself grace. Setbacks are inevitable, but it’s how you bounce back that matters. She reminds others not to let one bad day turn into a week or a month. “Remember you are doing better than you were the day before and you should count that as a big win.” 

As Samantha continues to push through her goals, she remains dedicated to helping others who are just starting their own journeys. “If my story can help even one person beat that fear, then it is well worth it,” she says. By sharing her experience, Samantha hopes to inspire others to take that first step, no matter how daunting it may seem. With her eyes set on even bigger goals down the line, including participating in the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, Samantha’s journey proves that transformation is possible for anyone willing to take the leap. 

13.1 Ways to Prep for the Indy Mini  

With the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon officially 13 weeks and one day away, there’s no better time than now to start preparing for race day!  

Having a solid training routine can help you stay prepared, motivated, and consistent. A clear set of goals ensures that your journey to race day is both focused and fulfilling.  

Here are 13.1 ways to prepare for the Indy Mini! 

1. Set Goals

Defining achievable goals such as completing the race, running without walking, or hitting a specific time can provide clear direction and motivation. Start setting goals during your training to help you work toward your larger race day goals. Clear goals will help you stay focused and build confidence as race day approaches. 

2. Mental Preparation  

A positive mindset and mental toughness can make all the difference. A strong mind will push you through the discomfort and stay motivated on race day. Practicing mindfulness, visualizing crossing the finish line, and developing key mantras and motivational phrases can help you stay motivated during the race. 

3. Eat a Balanced Diet  

Fuel your body with carbohydrates for energy, protein for muscle recovery, and healthy fats for stamina. Maintaining a healthy diet can improve mental focus, reduce the chance of injury, and enhance long-term health benefits. 

4. Stay Hydrated 

Hydration is key for race preparation! Stay consistent with your water intake throughout your training, especially during runs and days leading up to the race. The general rule is to drink one ounce of water for every two pounds of body weight. 

5. Plan your Race Nutrition and Routine 

Experiment with pre-race meals, mid-run fueling, or electrolyte drinks during training runs. Your training is a perfect time to test different foods and drinks to see how your body reacts. Knowing your preferences will help you feel more energized on race day. 

6. Strength Training 

Incorporate exercises that target your legs, core, and mobility to build muscle endurance and enhance running efficiency. Stronger muscles also reduce the risk of injury. 

7. Follow a Training Plan 

A detailed training plan provides a structured approach to your preparation, ensuring you’re ready and confident by race day. The official Mini-Marathon training guide is designed to help you reach peak performance and cross the finish line strong! Remember, this is just a guide. Listening to your body is more important than following it to a T. 

8. Familiarize yourself with the Course Map  

Knowing the course will help you pace yourself effectively and anticipate any challenges. Click here to see the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon course map. One highlight of the course is a thrilling 2.5-mile lap around the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway! 

9. Avoid Overtraining  

Listen to your body and recognize the difference between pushing yourself and risking injury. Rest when needed and remember that quality training sessions are more effective than excessive mileage. If you miss a day in your training plan, don’t sweat it. It’s not worth it to make up the mileage or stress about it. 

10. Simulate Race Day 

Practice running on similar terrain and at the same start time as the Mini-Marathon to help your body adapt to race conditions. Additionally, wear the clothing and gear you plan to use on race day to ensure your attire is both comfortable and effective for the long run. 

11. Prioritize Rest and Recovery 

Your body needs time to heal and acclimate to the demands of training. Incorporate rest days and low-impact movement in your training regimen to support recovery and maintain fitness.

12. Solidify your Warm-up and Cool-Down Routine  

Practice dynamic stretches before running to prepare and warm up your muscles for activity and reduce the risk of injury. After runs, cool-down with light jogging and static stretches to prevent stiffness and aid in recovery.

13. Stretch and Recovery  

Make stretching a part of your daily routine to prevent injury and enhance flexibility. It doesn’t have to take long—just 5 minutes focusing on a few key stretches or yoga moves can make a difference. 

13.1 Enjoy the race and give it your all! 

Embrace the excitement and energy of race day! We can’t wait to see you on May 3rd for the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon! 

Wishing you the best of luck in your race endeavors! Don’t forget to share your favorite Mini-Marathon photos and memories using #IndyMini. Keep up to date with all the excitement of May by following @500festival on Facebook and Instagram.  

#WhyIMini with Winard Anderson Jr.

Runners Walkers running on the Indianapolis 500 Mile Track.

The thought of participating in a half marathon occurred to me last year, when I was watching the race while preparing for work. Seeing all the fun and enthusiasm planted the seed in my mind, which caused me to think what a blessing it would be if I could run again.  

My name is Winard Anderson Jr., and I am 69 years old. I am preparing myself every day to be able to run the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. This opportunity presents a remarkable undertaking seeing as it will be my first time running in over 44 years. I am a below-the-knee amputee with a very short stump. The challenge presents complications at times when walking, however, I am confident I will conquer the vigorous demand of running this half-marathon. I have a wide range of support from Indiana Prosthetics, family, friends, and co-workers who have surrounded me with encouragement. Matt and his team at Indiana Prosthetics have developed a prosthetic running device that will allow me to be successful in this pursuit.  

After making the commitment to run in the Mini-Marathon, I whole-heartedly embraced the idea of running in honor of my father. I pre-registered to run, received my running shoes and running leg. I shared my excitement and plans with my cousin in Jamaica, who later reminded me that May 4, the day of the race, is the day my dad transitioned from life to heaven’s reward. I must press on and cross the finish line.  

Currently, I am approaching 12 years of marriage to my beautiful and loving wife, Trena. Together we share three daughters and one son, along with seven grandchildren. I work at the RoomPlace Greenwood location as a sales manager. Outside of work, I am blessed to serve as a Deacon at Lee’s Temple Church of God in Christ, here in Indianapolis under Pastor Michael Coleman Sr.  

Join Winard in conquering the Indy Mini on May 4, in Downtown Indianapolis! Register today at indymini.com/register.

Running In Remission- Michael Patterson’s #WhyIMini Story

Michael Patterson has such an inspiring story for anyone, no matter if you’re an Indy Mini participant or not. Michael’s story proves that even though medical challenges may appear, by persevering to achieve your goals, anything is possible. Check out his running and medical journey below!  

I’m a two-time Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and Bone Marrow Transplant survivor. 

I was first diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in 2008 after a surgical procedure that removed a mass from my lower right quad, the size and weight of a small baby, and part of my colon. After my surgery and while undergoing chemotherapy, I had a recurrence of the disease in the form of two masses. After roughly two years of treatment, I had a lifesaving autologous bone marrow transplant. During and after treatment, I endured many procedures such as PET scans, CT scans, EGD, Colonoscopy, Ultrasound, transfusions, infusions, surgeries and so much more. 

The transition back to a healthy lifestyle was challenging to say the least. I was out of shape due to everything, so I had to start with a 5K. I probably walked half of it. I continued to push my training while increasing my distance. Next was a 10K, then 10 miles, then a half marathon, then a full marathon. At that time, I also started doing triathlons. I’ve been in remission for many years and have completed 21 full marathons, including the Monumental Marathon five times. I’ve completed two full Ironman triathlons and nine half Ironman. I’ve been able to complete many half marathons including the Indy Mini twice, and I’m currently registered for this year. It’s easily my favorite half. This fellow Hoosier was blown away with how well organized it was. Not to mention the volunteers, course, and fellow runners. I plan on being back this year and many years after, God willing.  

I am so grateful to be alive and I do my very best to make the most out of every day. I’m not perfect by any means, but I give my best effort every day. Also, my oncologist, nurses, PA’s and everyone who helped me fight, including my wife and family. Without them I couldn’t have done it. Running is a social sport, and I often share my story with hopes of inspiring someone who is going through tough times. 

48 Things to Know About the Indy Mini

The Indy Mini is a classic half marathon in the city of Indianapolis that has taken place consistently over the years since the beginning of the 500 Festival. The Mini-Marathon is a staple event in the Indianapolis area that challenges participants to complete 13.1 miles around the city. This race is extremely iconic to the Month of May and the Indianapolis 500 because it gets the community excited for the big race. In honor of the 48th running of the Indy Mini Marathon this year, here’s 48 things that you should know about the Mini Marathon!  

  1. There are 200 checkered flags lining Victory Mile, which is the last mile of the Mini-Marathon that leads to the finish line.  
  1. We have approximately 1,400 incredible volunteers who help during the week of the Mini-Marathon.  
  1. Over 20,000 bananas are handed out to participants at runner services after the race.  
  1. Nearly 50 exciting entertainment groups line the route.  
  1. The Mini-Marathon is a flat and fast course designed for setting personal records.  
  1. 15 countries represented by participants in the 2023 race.  
  1. There’s a celebratory Post-Race Party for participants and spectators at Military Park.  
  1. The Indy Mini is a timed half marathon on a USATF sanctioned course.  
  1. 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of OneAmerica as the presenting partner of the Mini-Marathon.   
  1. Before 1999, the Indy Mini took place at noon on the Friday before the Indianapolis 500.  
  1. The first 500 finishers get a unique medal.  
  1.  Each participant gets a free post-race snack that consists of fruit, granola bars, cookies, and if permitted, a beer.  
  1. You can track your runner through the results page.  
  1.  There are multiple places you can watch the Mini like: the start line, Main Street in Speedway, the entrance to the Motor Speedway, Victory Mile, and the finish line.  
  1. Participants can get a chance to kiss the Yard of Bricks at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.  
  1. There are 21 Indy Mini Ambassadors for this year’s race.  
  1. There have only been 5 participants who have completed the Mini each year since the beginning.  
  1. 140 athletes participated in the Elite Field in the Mini-Marathon in 2023.  
  1. There are 300 tables used throughout the course for pit stations and runner services.  
  1. 165,000 Gatorade and water cups are used at pit stations along the route.  
  1. The Mini-Marathon Expo Hall is about 40,000 sq. ft.  
  1. The Indy Mini was voted “America’s Best Half Marathon” by USA Today’s 10Best.  
  1. The course includes a 2.5-mile lap around the track at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.  
  1. The half marathon starts and finishes in the heart of Indianapolis.  
  1. The Post-Race Party includes free massages, a bottle of chocolate milk for participants, an entertainment stage, and more. 
  1. Participation in the Indy Mini helps the 500 Festival provide free youth health, fitness, and education events to Indiana schools.  
  1. The 500 Festival reaches more than 100,000 Hoosier children every year with the help of your participation in the Mini-Marathon.  
  1. The 500 Festival’s first idea for the half marathon was a bicycle race.  
  1. The first race in 1977 had just over 1,000 participants.  
  1. 20 years later in 1997, there were almost 19,700 participants.  
  1. The Indy Mini is known as ‘the Greatest Spectacle in Racing’.  
  1. Each finisher gets a unique finisher medal. 
  1. Parking is available in downtown Indy. Be sure to arrive early on race morning to allow time to park. 
  1. There is a designated ‘cheer zone’ for spectators and fans at the finish line.  
  1. WTHR-Channel 13 is the live broadcast coverage for the half-marathon.  
  1. The last few years, the weather during the race has been in the mid-60s.  
  1. There are 51 states (including DC) represented by participants each year.  
  1. There are currently 10 countries currently represented for this year’s race.  
  1. The Indy Mini was named one of “America’s Most Iconic Races” by Runner’s World.  
  1. In the 1980s, the 500 Festival sponsored a spaghetti dinner for the runners the night before the Mini.  
  1. The Indy Mini half marathon is 13.1 miles long.  
  1. Online registration for the Indy Mini closes on April 28th at 11:59 pm EST. 
  1. You can register in-person for the Mini-Marathon at the Expo. 
  1. You can submit an application to be seeded and placed in one of the earlier waves in the race.  
  1. The Gold Mile is one of the toughest miles of the race that pays tribute to fallen service members and their surviving families, with volunteers offering motivational encouragement.  
  1. There will be a group of pacers who will hold signs of the pace they are running so that you can meet your performance goals.  
  1. 90,000 safety pins used.  
  1. Reserve a tent in the InField during the Post-Race Party for family and friends to celebrate their participant by bringing their own food and beverages. 

Building Your Running Community

Forming a support system that cheers you on and watches you grow and achieve something incredible is important to have when conquering a feat like the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. Building a strong community with sports allows motivation and bonds to form during your months of training! Check out some ideas and ways you can build your running community before, during, and after the Mini-Marathon! 

Reach out to Local Family, Friends, & Communities 

Consider reaching out to your inner circle. Allowing your friends and family to support and encourage you with your running or walking creates a culture that is both positive and engaging! Post flyers in your local coffee shops, businesses, your workplace, or fitness centers so that people see a running community being formed and they can join if they are interested! Listing practice times and fun activities to do outside of running will also help bring people into your running community! 

Schedule Trainings Before Race Day 

When training for the Mini-Marathon, setting certain days and times of practicing with your running community is important. Keep each other accountable about those meeting times and allow for flexibility. Prepare each week for different weather changes and allow for growth in each type of weather condition that occurs. 

Constant Communication 

Communication is key with a running group, no matter how big or small! When training for the Mini-Marathon, be intentional about listening to each other’s needs. This allows for a positive culture to form and build trust when training. Positive encouragement, allowing time for proper rest and recovery, and listening to your body are key!  

Be Intentional & Create Your Own Culture 

It’s not always about running and walking. Be available for creative activities beyond basic training exercises to help break up a normal routine. Try a new sport together or mix up your regular training. Grab your training group and visit local restaurants, go bowling, or go watch that new show everyone is raving about! Building friendships and creating bonds are awesome for lifelong needs and sharing the same passions outside of training. There are so many fun things to do around Indy with so many places to visit!  

Setting Goals Across the Globe – Becky Wheeler’s Why I Mini Story

Becky Wheeler is taking on the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, traveling all the way from the UK! We can’t wait for Becky to experience The Greatest Spectacle in Running on May 6! Check out her Why I Mini story below to learn more about Becky, her fitness journey, and her advice to other participants.

This is my first Indy Mini. I have driven down through Arizona back in 2006, but this is my first proper trip to the States.

A few years ago I joined a Facebook Running Group and got to know quite a few other members. We would comment on each other’s posts, it helped a lot at the time. I became great friends with one particular member and our friendship has grown over the years. I passed a comment one day about coming to visit him and the family and that is what has brought me to the States now. He loves to run too, has done numerous Half Marathons and 12 Full Marathons, he’s completed the Indy Mini several times too! For me to come from the UK, I didn’t want to stay for just a couple of weeks. I’ve needed a good long break for a long time and haven’t taken a holiday for a number of years, so decided to take a couple of months off and come to the States for 7 whole weeks. I’ve been here now for just over 2 weeks, so still have a long time to go.

I completed the Carmel Half Marathon last weekend and have signed-up for the Kentucky Half as well as the Indy Mini. All these races will be run with my best friend Ryan Rivera who I’m staying with and who has helped to totally transform my running!

As you can see from one of the photos, I used to be alot larger than what I am now. At 5’2″ and 196lb I knew I had to try and lose some weight. Over the following 9 months I lost over 60lbs and that is when my love of running started. I started off hardly being able to complete 200m, but I wasn’t going to give up on it so just kept going, increasing the distance as much as I could. I started going to the gym and loved that too and it helped alot. I took on my first race, a Half Marathon, about a year later, that was back in 2018 and I haven’t looked back since! I’ve got no idea how many Half Marathons I’ve completed but have also taken on 5 Full Marathons, the greatest of which was completed the London Marathon last year, it was one of the best days ever! Have attached a picture of that day too. Like alot of other runners, I’ve suffered injuries and setbacks, but the love of running will never stop and I will always try to do what I can. I’m not where I wanted to be for this trip, but nothing will stop me lining up on that Start Line in May!

Everyone’s running journeys are different, but I would always say set yourself achievable goals especially when you’re starting off, a goal you know you’ll be able to reach but something that will make you work, this will help with the motivation of wanting to achieve more, you’ll keep thing what you could actually achieve. You need to also set a long term goal, like your first race or hitting a certain time.

My Many Lessons from the Indy Mini

Derek Savick-Hesser, April 2023

In 2021, I made the choice to up my running game and take on my first ever half marathon, and since then, the Indy Mini has been a staple of my yearly training plan. Why? Because the event has continued to provide a way for me to keep connecting and continue growing as a runner and person.

In fact, as I head into my third Indy Mini this year, I have begun to recognize the many lessons I’ve learned throughout my Indy Mini seasons.

Running is a Team Sport

As I amped up my training for my first Indy Mini, I ran the streets alone almost always. But, I realize now just how many friends, family members, and community supporters were rooting for me. Even on the virtual race day, my partner and I were dropped off by a dear friend who was there to cheer us on at that finish and celebrate later that day. This support only grew as I joined my first in-person Indy Mini. I saw a vast group of diverse participants and spectators who were there for one purpose – to finish together. That day, I knew that although I had to journey the course on my own, I had an entire team backing me up and wanting nothing but success for me and everyone else around us.

Resting is Essential 

Entering my second Indy Mini training season, I was ready to crush my goals. I was going to run 5-6 days a week, implement at least one day of cross training, and boost my approach to nutrition. Just one week into the new year, I was faced with extreme muscle fatigue, restricted breath, and more. Soon after this, I was diagnosed with COVID and would experience prolonged symptoms impacting my muscles and joints. As I continued to try pushing myself to achieve my steep goals, I experienced elevated levels of pain. Finally, I built in time to pause. I stretched, did yoga, walked, and even just rested. As I continued to focus on those moments of pause, I began to heal, and I began to focus on gratitude for my ability to move. Come the morning of Indy Mini race day, I was full of gratitude and ready to just be in community with other participants. Turns out that rest paid off…I was able to PR and exceed my goals thanks to my moments of pause heavily integrated with moments of activity.

Seeing Beauty is a Choice 

Every time I run the Indy Mini, I am reminded of the beauty within my city (which I miss when inside the hustle and bustle of the daily grind). The same places I see in a car every day look different and feel different when running the streets and choosing to really see everything around me. As I’ve come to appreciate being forced to take in my surroundings while running, I have owned the choice I have to see (and create) beauty in my community. Thanks to the Indy Mini, I now find myself not just seeing a city around me. Rather, I am able to see a connected community of people, places, and stories that form beauty all around us and deserve to be seen.

Succeeding Means Many Things

As someone new to running in my adult years, I had little to no idea of what success was. With no benchmark, I was eager to explore articles for qualifying times, pacing guides, and records. I was soon overwhelmed and uncertain that I’d ever be “successful” as a runner. Then, I ran my first Indy Mini. At the end, I felt it…success! Simply completing a distance and knowing I accomplished a goal was success to me. The more I talked to other participants, the more I recognized that success is really an individual definition. So, I run each Indy Mini with new goals and celebrate every other participant for coming to the race with their own. Together, we can all work to be the best versions of ourselves and succeed together, however different that looks from one person to the next. 

I am so grateful for the moments of pause and lessons I’ve learned in my Indy Mini journey. As you prepare to join in or support the Indy Mini festivities this year and beyond, I hope you, too, find time to reflect and recall the memories and lessons from your event involvement. After all, that’s the beauty of the Indy Mini and the 500 Festival!

Indy Mini Training Survival Guide

Here are a few steps to keep in mind as you prepare to walk or run the Indy Mini Marathon!

Make a Commitment to Conquer the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon!  

We hope you will join us on May 6 for one of America’s Most Iconic Half Marathons. The Indy Mini is a blast, and we have no doubt you will have an unforgettable experience as you challenge yourself and accomplish something amazing.  

Set Your Goals 

Your goals don’t have to be based on the clock! Whatever your goals may be, set them early and work your best to stick to them. Thousands of runners and walkers from all over the country and globe will come together with different goals, but one goal will remain the same, to experience this Month of May tradition and have the half marathon experience of a lifetime!  

Prepare for the Weather  

If you’re not from Indy, you may not be familiar with how the weather can go from 75 and sunny, to rainy in a single day. Be sure to check the weather so you can dress accordingly.  If the weather happens to be around 40-60 degrees or above, most runners will opt to wear shorts and a sleeveless shirt. However, if the temperature drops below 40, most runners will wear capris, shorts, and a long sleeve shirt with a light jacket. Everyone has different preferences, so be sure to play around with what works best for you. Remember, it’s always a good idea to pack an extra jacket, gloves, socks, or even an Indy Mini hat! 

Plan your Pace When Training 

Now that you are starting to train for the best half-marathon, it’s time to start finding your pace! Everyone’s pace is different, so start off with something that is comfortable for you and be sure to avoid using all your energy at the beginning, so you don’t burn yourself out. Running or walking with a buddy can also push you to set a good pace and maintain a consistent speed.  Hey can help you be accountable and give encouragement throughout the entire race!  

Plan Your Nutrition 

The rule of thumb when preparing meals and snacks while training and on the day of the half-marathon is to get your protein in. This includes items such as meat, eggs, cheese, milk, nuts, etc. Whole grains, such as oatmeal, brown rice, etc., are also great options for energy! Everyone is different, so be sure to find what works best for you in terms of nutrition and the time you fuel up before a workout or race. When race day rolls around, be sure to stick with what has worked best for you during your training instead of making any drastic changes in your nutritional plans.  

Hydration is Key 

Water, water, water! For a half-marathon, it is important to stay hydrated throughout your training and leading up to your big day. At the Mini-Marathon, there will be Gatorade and water stations placed along the course for participants to fuel up along their journey. Hydrating will restore energy and keep you safe during your run or walk. Always listen to your body and don’t be afraid to take breaks! 

The Most Important Part…. Smile & Have Fun! 

You will experience one of America’s Most Iconic Half Marathons! You should be proud of preparing physically and mentally for this exciting morning. Don’t forget to enjoy each part of the race from the wave of the green flag at the start line, to racing across the finish line to the checkered flag! We can’t wait to see you in Indianapolis on May 6!